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Peppermint Swirl Snow Cookies – Festive, Sweet & Melt-in-Your-Mouth Treats
If you’re looking for a holiday-inspired, sweet, and soft cookie, these Peppermint Swirl Snow Cookies are perfect. Buttery dough with a festive peppermint swirl makes each bite melt in your mouth and adds a beautiful touch to any dessert table.
Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or cozy winter baking, these cookies are both charming and delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Swirl Snow Cookies
- Soft & Buttery: Light, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Festive & Beautiful: Peppermint swirls create a holiday-worthy look.
- Sweet & Refreshing: Peppermint flavor balances the rich cookie dough.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully for friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for extra tenderness)
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Red food coloring (optional, for swirl effect)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Add Peppermint Swirl
Divide dough into two portions. Tint one portion lightly with red food coloring (optional).
Gently fold in crushed peppermint candies into both portions.
Roll portions into thin logs, then twist together to create a swirl effect. Slice into ½-inch thick rounds.
4. Bake
Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
5. Cool & Dust
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Flavor and Texture
These Peppermint Swirl Snow Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweet, with refreshing peppermint notes. The exterior is delicate, while the center melts in your mouth.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing.
- Do not overbake; cookies should remain soft.
- Crush peppermint candies finely to prevent large shards.
- Use powdered sugar to enhance the “snowy” look.
- Swirl colors gently for a pretty marbled effect.
What to Serve With
- Hot cocoa or coffee
- Holiday dessert platters
- Ice cream or whipped cream for indulgent pairing
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint candies?
Yes, just crush them finely. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate dough for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. - Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, mini chocolate chips complement the peppermint nicely. - Can I skip the food coloring?
Absolutely, the cookies will still taste delicious. - Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt in the recipe. - Can I make them vegan?
Use vegan butter and an egg substitute. - How do I prevent peppermint from burning?
Add it near the end of baking if very finely crushed or bake at slightly lower temperature. - Can I roll cookies differently?
Yes, you can shape into balls or logs for different swirl effects. - Can I dust them with other toppings?
Yes, powdered sugar, white chocolate drizzle, or crushed candy works well.
Final Thoughts
These Peppermint Swirl Snow Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly festive. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy winter baking, or gift-giving.